Germany · for applicants from Nigeria
For freelancers (Freiberufler, e.g. IT, design, writers, doctors) or self-employed entrepreneurs to live in Germany running their own activity. Requires evidence of viability, client interest/financing, and (for some professions) registration. Berlin is a common base for freelancers.
Rules last verified: 20 August 2026 · by Elizabeth O
Embassy processing
Varies
Our turnaround
5–7 working days
Done-for-you Standard
Government fees
~£86
≈ ₦156,692
Business not viable / no economic interest
Plan lacks demand, financing, or regional benefit.
Fix: Provide a credible plan with client letters and financing evidence.
No client interest (freelancers)
No letters of intent from prospective clients.
Fix: Gather concrete letters of intent before applying.
Required
Valid passport
When: "all"
Business / freelance plan with financing & revenue forecast
When: "all"
Letters of intent from prospective clients
When: "freelancers"
Qualification / professional licence
When: "all"
Proof of funds & health insurance
When: "all"
Depends on your situation
Pension provision evidence
1. Prepare your application
Gather documents, draft supporting letters, complete forms
1–3 weeks
2. Rekoja review (if Done-for-you)
Specialist checks your file before you submit
5–7 working days
3. Submit online or at visa centre
Biometrics appointment may be required
1 day
4. Embassy decision
Standard processing. Priority options may be available.
Varies
These are the fees you pay to the government, not Rekoja's service fee. Shown at the indicative exchange rate.
Mandatory
National visa (self-employment)
£86
₦156,692
Total government fees
~£86
≈ ₦156,692
Indicative. 1 GBP = 1,822 NGN · 16 September 2026. Government fees change. Confirm on the official website before paying.
A free AI can tell you the rules. Rekoja does the harder part: we verify them against the official government source, prepare the actual application file, catch what gets people refused, and a specialist checks everything before you submit. We stand behind our work.
Free. The documents this route asks for and the all-in cost, in your currency. No signup to see them.
We carry Germany and the work route over from this page. The first screen shows both so you can change them, then it is two answers about you and picking your route. Your full profile is checked later, with your desk team.
Sourced answers to the most-searched questions about this corridor are being verified and will appear here. Start the free assessment or ask the desk directly.
Real, consented, initials-only outcomes with days-to-decision will appear here as cases close. The embassy decides; past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Many work routes include an interview or credibility check. Done-for-you Premium includes a live interview-preparation session with a specialist: the questions officers actually ask on this route, practised with you before the real thing.
Preparation improves your readiness, not the decision. Practice, never a guarantee.
Other routes to Germany
Free. Two answers about you, then your checklist and the all-in cost for this route. No signup to see them.
Get my checklist and prices free →Not a visa decision or legal advice. Rules shown are as of the last verification date above. Immigration rules change. Confirm before filing. The embassy decides, not Rekoja.